Is Martellus Bennett on his way out of Chicago?
The Bears have placed the veteran tight end on the trading block, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday, citing sources informed of the team's thinking. If another club swings a deal for Bennett, they'll do so knowing that the talented pass-catcher wants a contract extension.
Bennett signed a four-year, $20.4 million deal with the Bears in 2013, but the eighth-year pro has been a no-show for Chicago's offseason workouts. With running back Matt Forte also skipping the sessions, a whopping 53 percent of the team's total net offense from last season is missing.
Bennett is set to earn $4.9 million in base salary this season along with a $100,000 workout bonus. In two campaigns with the Bears, the 28-year-old target has pulled in 155 catches for 1,675 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Bennett drew a five-day, team-imposed suspension in August after annoying players and coaches with a lackadaisical effort in training camp capped by his fight with cornerback Kyle Fuller.
The Bennett Bros. are having one heck of an offseason, with Michael, the Seahawks pass rusher, also reportedly seeking a new deal after inking a four-year, $28.5 million pact in 2014.
Money aside, Martellus would give tight end-needy teams a bona fide target through the air. We wouldn't be surprised to see someone come calling.
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